Over 40 students have fallen ill and required hospitalization after consuming the hot mid-day meal (Bisi Oota) served at a government school in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. The incident, which is strongly suspected to be a case of food poisoning, has caused panic among parents and prompted a swift response from health and education authorities.
The Incident and Immediate Response
The mass sickness was reported from a PM Shri School (as per local reports) in the Uttara Kannada district. Shortly after consuming the noon meal, students began complaining of severe symptoms, including vomiting, stomach pain, and general uneasiness.
- Swift Hospitalization: The school administration and local authorities quickly mobilized to transport the affected students to the Taluk Hospital in Mundgod.
- Medical Status: Dr. Swaruparani Patil, the administrative medical officer at the hospital, confirmed that more than 40 students were admitted. While the sudden large number of cases was alarming, officials assured parents that all students were receiving treatment and that their condition was stable and out of danger.
Allegations of Unhygienic Conditions
Initial reports from parents and local residents point toward poor hygiene as the likely cause of the contamination.
"The parents have alleged a lack of cleanliness in the food preparation, citing the presence of rat droppings in the mid-day meal provisions," according to one report.
This serious accusation has put the spotlight back on the stringent quality and sanitation standards required for the mid-day meal scheme, which feeds millions of children daily.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact source of the contamination:
- Sample Collection: Health officials have collected samples of the cooked food, water, and raw food ingredients used at the school kitchen.
- Laboratory Testing: These samples have been sent to a laboratory for detailed analysis to pinpoint the toxin or contaminant responsible for the students' illness.
- Strict Action Promised: The District Administration is expected to take strict legal action against the kitchen staff and school authorities if negligence or compromise of hygiene standards is confirmed by the investigation report.
The incident underscores the recurring challenges in maintaining absolute quality and hygiene control within large-scale government feeding programs in residential and public schools across Karnataka.
